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Here's How To Tell If You're Still Contagious After Being Sick
Getting sick leading up to the holidays brings its own set of headaches. If you're anything like me, you'll be worried about transmitting your illness to your loved ones for fear of ruining their festive season. It's a time of gatherings with friends and family ― people generally want to spend it in good health.
When I fall ill and start getting dreaded symptoms, I spend a lot of time researching exactly when I will be recovered enough to catch up with my friends and family again. In other words, when will I stop being contagious? How convenient it would be, I've often thought, if there were a "cheat sheet" of this information for the most common winter infections.
If you've recently gotten ill and are wishing for the same guidance, keep reading. The advice below will help you gauge whether you're still contagious, and give you tips on how to protect the people around you from catching the sickness too.
FluWhen people contract the flu, they "get sick fairly quickly. They feel fine in the morning, and by afternoon they're suddenly pretty sick," said Dr. Marlene Millen, a board-certified internal medicine doctor and primary care physician at UC San Diego Health.
They'll be hit with a few or all of the following symptoms: chills, fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue and headaches, and runny or congested nose.
Once you get flu symptoms, "people are most contagious the first few days of it," Millen said, and remain contagious for up to seven days.
Stay home while you are symptomatic. Once symptoms start improving overall and the fever has left without the use of fever-reducing drugs — both things must be true for at least a full 24 hours — you are less contagious and can leave your home. Symptoms are considered to be improving if you're feeling well enough to perform your daily activities.
For at least five days afterward or while you have lingering symptoms, wear a mask and practice physical distancing as much as you can.
"You can be contagious for up to two weeks afterwards, if you're still pretty sick or if you're immunosuppressed," Millen explained.
The influenza diagnostic test cannot tell you how contagious a person is, said Dr. Tara Vijayan, medical director of the Adult Antimicrobial Stewardship program at UCLA Health.
COVIDCOVID is caused by the virus more clinically known as SARS-CoV-2. You may have a fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, headache, congestion or runny nose, diarrhea, fatigue, and nausea or vomiting. Losing your sense of taste or smell is another symptom observed in COVID, although that tends to be less common now.
If you are symptomatic, stay at home even if your symptoms are mild, Millen said. Once symptoms start improving overall and your fever has subsided without fever-reducing drugs — again, both things must be true for at least a full 24 hours — you are considered less contagious, and can leave your home. Wear a mask and practice physical distancing if there are lingering symptoms or if you continue to yield a positive result on a home COVID test, both experts said.
Sometimes, COVID symptoms worsen one to two weeks after their initial onset. If this happens, stay home again and follow the above protocols to avoid spreading the virus to others.
There are people who are asymptomatic even though they have COVID. If you fall into this camp and get a positive COVID test result, wear a mask and practice physical distancing around other people for at least five days.
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There are a few key factors that can generally tell you if enough time has passed that you're no longer contagious.The Common ColdThe common cold is caused by many different types of respiratory viruses. Typical symptoms include a runny or congested nose, coughing, sneezing, sore throat, fever, body aches and headache. It's similar to the flu, but one way to differentiate it is that "colds come on gradually, usually over the course of a few days," said Millen. Flu, on the other hand, is very abrupt and intense.
After you begin exhibiting symptoms of the common cold, you are contagious for about seven days, Vijayan said. Once symptoms are cleared, you are no longer contagious.
While you are symptomatic, stay home. Once symptoms start improving overall and your fever has subsided without taking fever-reducing drugs for at least a full 24 hours, you are less contagious and can return to daily activities. Masking and physical distancing are strongly encouraged until symptoms are healed or for at least five days, to prevent spreading the virus to others.
RSVRSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is a viral infection. "I call it the wheezing virus because it makes people wheeze," Millen said.
If you are coughing, sneezing or wheezing, or you have a fever or a runny or congested nose, there is a chance it may be RSV. Symptoms tend to pop up in stages instead of all at once.
Once you start showing RSV symptoms, you are contagious for up to eight days afterward, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
You are advised to stay home while you are symptomatic. Once symptoms start improving overall and your fever has subsided without fever-reducing drugs for at least a full 24 hours, you are less contagious and can cease isolation. While you have ongoing symptoms, or for at least five days, practice physical distancing and mask when you're out and about.
If you are immunocompromised, you can be contagious for four or more weeks after you start developing RSV symptoms. This is true even if you no longer have symptoms.
Strep ThroatStrep throat is a bacterial infection that commonly presents as a sore throat without any nasal symptoms or watery eyes, Millen explained. Your throat may also feel swollen, there may be red spots on the roof of your mouth or white spots on your throat, and you may develop a fever.
When you start getting the symptoms of strep throat, inform your doctor so they can prescribe you antibiotics for it.
"Once you start the antibiotics for strep throat, you're only infectious for about 24 hours afterwards," Millen said. Stay at home for 24 hours from when you start taking the antibiotics, and until your fever has lifted. Besides reducing your contagiousness, the antibiotics help ease your sore throat quickly, Vijayan noted.
Strep throat "can be contagious for up to three weeks if you don't get antibiotics," Millen said.
Whooping Cough (Pertussis)Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a bacterial infection with symptoms that mimic those of the common cold in the early stage of the disease, according to Millen. You might have a runny or congested nose, a very mild cough, and low-grade fever.
About seven to 14 days in, the coughs worsen into violent and uncontrollable coughing fits. During and after these fits, some people are short of breath or exhausted; they may vomit, or feel like they're going to; and they may let out the characteristic "whoop" sound after the cough, according to both Vijayan and Millen.
According to the CDC, pertussis is contagious from the time symptoms begin until about 14 days after the onset of the cough.
If you have symptoms that resemble the common cold, it's a good idea to stay home and pay attention to whether your cough worsens over time. If it does, see your doctor immediately to confirm whether you have pertussis or another illness. The antibiotic for pertussis is more effective if prescribed early.
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After taking the antibiotic for pertussis for five full days, you are considered to no longer be contagious.
Throat Pain Home Remedies: 5 Effective Tips To Cure Sore Throat In Winter
How to cure sore throat naturally at home? Here are the top 5 tips you must try to get rid of scratchy throat easily. Throat Pain Home Remedies: 5 Tips To Naturally Cure Sore Throat In WinterSore Throat Home Remedies: As winter sets in, many people experience the discomfort of a scratchy, sore throat. The cold air, dry indoor environments, and the seasonal uptick in viral infections can all contribute to this common issue. Whether it's from a viral infection like the flu or just the dry air, a scratchy throat can be irritating. While it's always important to seek medical advice if symptoms persist, here are the top 5 effective home remedies to help soothe and heal a sore throat naturally.
Throat Pain Home Remedies: 5 Tips To Cure Sore Throat In WinterIf you are also facing constant problem with sore throat, and pain with the arrival of the chilly days, make sure to try these 5 effective home remedies:
Warm Salt Water GargleOne of the easiest and most effective ways to soothe a sore throat is by gargling with warm salt water. This method helps reduce swelling and discomfort by pulling out excess fluid from inflamed tissues. Simply mix half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water, and gargle several times a day. Not only does this remedy calm your throat, but it also helps to kill bacteria, speeding up the healing process.
Drink Honey and Lemon TeaA delightful concoction of honey and lemon in warm water serves as a comforting drink that can ease throat pain. Honey boasts natural antibacterial properties and forms a protective layer in the throat to relieve irritation, while lemon adds a boost of vitamin C to enhance your immune system. To prepare this soothing drink, mix a tablespoon of honey with the juice of half a lemon in a cup of warm water. Enjoy this tea several times throughout the day for maximum benefit.
Consume Herbal TeasEnjoying herbal teas like chamomile, ginger, or peppermint can be incredibly comforting for a scratchy throat. These teas not only warm you up but also have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce discomfort. For instance, chamomile tea is widely praised for its calming effects and can promote relaxation, which is particularly helpful when you're feeling under the weather. Sip on these herbal teas during the day to keep your throat feeling hydrated and soothed.
Use HumidifiersInvesting in a humidifier can markedly improve the air quality in your home, especially during the winter when indoor heating tends to dry out the air. Dry air can worsen throat pain and irritation, which is why it's vital to keep moisture levels up. A humidifier adds necessary humidity to your environment, relieving scratchy throats and reducing coughing. Just remember to clean your humidifier regularly to prevent mold and bacteria growth that could exacerbate throat issues.
Apply Warm CompressesUsing a warm compress on your throat provides immediate relief from pain and discomfort. The warmth enhances blood flow, promoting healing and reducing inflammation. To create a warm compress, soak a clean cloth in warm water, wring it out, and wrap it around your neck. This easy remedy can be especially comforting before bed, helping you to enjoy a more restful night's sleep.
While these home remedies can help alleviate mild throat pain, it's important to consult a doctor if symptoms worsen or persist. Seek medical advice if you experience difficulty swallowing, fever, swollen glands, or if the pain lasts more than a week, as these could be signs of a more serious condition like strep throat or an infection requiring prescription medication.
In conclusion, sore throats are a common issue during the winter months, but with these simple and natural remedies, you can find relief and help prevent further discomfort. Always remember that prevention is key staying hydrated, avoiding irritants, and practicing good hygiene can help keep your throat healthy during the colder months.
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Cold And Cough Home Remedies: 5 Medicinal Drinks To Cure Sore Throat Quickly
How to cure cold and cough naturally at home? Here are the top 5 quick remedies to deal with soar throat. Cold And Cough Home Remedies: 5 Medicinal Drinks To Cure Sore Throat QuicklyCold and Cough Home Remedies: Winter is here! With the breezy cold wave, comes the season of cold and cough. A sore throat, often a common symptom of a cold or cough, can be extremely uncomfortable and bothersome. The pain or scratchiness in your throat makes it difficult to swallow, talk, and at times, even breathe. While there are numerous over-the-counter medications available, many people turn to home remedies, particularly medicinal drinks, to find relief. These natural remedies not only help soothe a sore throat but also promote overall wellness.
In this article, we will discuss the top 5 effective medicinal drinks that can help relieve sore throat symptoms quickly, providing comfort and boosting your immune system naturally.
5 Medicinal Drinks To Cure Cold and Cough Naturally At HomeAre you suffering from a cold and cough (sore throat)? Here are the top 5 medicinal drinks to cure this condition naturally at home without taking any medication:
Honey And LemonOne of the best home remedies for a sore throat is a warm mixture of honey and lemon. Honey is known for its antibacterial qualities and serves to coat the throat, offering quick relief from irritation. Lemon is packed with vitamin C, which boosts the immune system. To make this remedy, simply mix two tablespoons of honey with the juice of half a lemon in a cup of warm water. This comforting drink not only helps soothe soreness but also keeps you hydrated, which is especially important when you're under the weather.
Ginger or Adrak TeaGinger tea stands out as another strong home remedy for cold and cough symptoms. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can ease swelling in the throat and reduce discomfort. It also works as a natural decongestant, clearing nasal passages. To prepare ginger tea, slice fresh ginger root and let it steep in boiling water for about 10 minutes. Adding honey can boost the flavor and increase soothing effects. This warming drink not only calms a sore throat but also warms you up, making it especially soothing in colder weather.
Turmeric MilkTurmeric milk, known as 'golden milk,' is a traditional remedy that has been cherished in many cultures for ages. Turmeric boasts curcumin, which has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. To make turmeric milk, warm a cup of milk, then stir in a teaspoon of turmeric powder along with a dash of black pepper to improve absorption. Sweetening it with honey makes it taste even better. Drinking this before bed can soothe your throat and promote better sleep, which is crucial for recovery.
Saltwater GargleGargling with saltwater is a straightforward yet powerful way to relieve a sore throat. The salt helps to pull excess fluid from inflamed tissues, reducing swelling and discomfort. For a saltwater gargle, dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in warm water. Gargle for about 30 seconds and then spit it out. You can repeat this several times a day for the best results. It's an easy and quick method to ease throat pain without needing fancy ingredients.
Herbal Ayurvedic TeaA variety of herbal teas can also offer relief from cold and cough symptoms. Chamomile tea, for example, has anti-inflammatory effects that can help soothe your throat. Peppermint tea contains menthol, which acts as a natural decongestant and can reduce throat irritation. To make these herbal teas, steep the herbs in hot water for about five minutes. Adding honey can enhance the taste and provide extra soothing benefits. Drinking herbal teas throughout the day keeps you hydrated and supports your healing process.
Adding the above-mentioned top 5 medicinal drinks into your daily routine during cold and cough season can provide comfort and promote faster healing. Always remember to stay hydrated, rest, and consult a healthcare professional if your sore throat persists or worsens.
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